Walt Fritz

US-based physical therapist Walt Fritz teaches a unique interpretation of manual therapy to speech-language pathologists, voice professionals, and other related communities. His gentle, non-manipulative and interactive approach advances views of causation and impact from historical tissue-specific models into a multifactorial narrative, leaning heavily on biopsychosocial influences.

His principles apply to a broad spectrum of intervention models using a model of evaluation and intervention that encourages equality between patient and clinician, utilizing shared decision-making rather than the biomedical clinician-as-expert approach. Unlike traditional laryngeal and soft tissue manipulation, Walt offers the clinician and patient a more subtle approach that gives the receiver more time to assess its influence and relevance. This approach is often better tolerated than aggressive, manipulative forms of treatment and aligns well with newer research findings, allowing the patient to frame the intervention from their preferences and values. Seeing the utility of manual therapy not as a standalone treatment but as an integral part of clinicians' more extensive work, Walt assimilates his approach into a wide range of treatment protocols. His work is equally appropriate for dysphagia, dysphonia, voice performance limitations, oral motor dysfunction, tongue-related concerns, breathing difficulties, and related disorders.

Walt presents his live, in-person workshops internationally through his Foundations in Manual Therapy Seminars, www.WaltFritz.com, offers a range of online learning opportunities, and his book Manual Therapy in Voice and Swallowing: A Person-Centered Approach is scheduled for release in March 2023. Walt is a contributing author to The Oxford Handbook of Voice Pedagogy, which will be published by Oxford University Press in 2024, and maintains a physical therapy practice in Upstate, NY, USA.